Denver International Airport Guide | Travel Tips & Services

Welcome to the third busiest airport in the United States. With 26 airlines serving more than 200 destinations worldwide, it is one of the major US aviation hubs. Let’s say you have booked a flight to Denver International Airport from one of these destinations. Its massive size, 33,531 acres, and unique layout might overwhelm you if flying to the airport for the first time.  

Denver International Airport is highly acclaimed for its spacious design. It is located about 25 miles (40 km) northeast of downtown Denver, primarily serving the metropolitan Denver area and the Colorado’s Front Range Urban Corridor. 

We have brought this guide to help the first-time travelers to navigate the airport with confidence. Get every detail from the terminals to the placement of the concourses and understand every corner of the airport to move freely for whatever you want or need at the airport to make your landing smoother.  

Some of the key information about the DEN

Full Name	Denver International Airport
Opened	February 28, 1995
IATA Code	DEN
WMO Code	72565
Hub for	United Airlines
Address	8500 Pena Blvd, Denver, CO 80249, United States
Phone Number	+1 720-730-4359

Pre-Arrival Preparation (The “Before You Go” Phase)

For a smooth journey, it’s essential to ensure that everything is in order before you reach the airport. Arriving late at the airport or missing important travel documents can lead to unnecessary delays and added stress during your journey. To facilitate yourself, use this checklist to prepare yourself for the journey. 

1. Best Time to Arrive 

Never miss your flight or complete formalities before time to ensure a smooth boarding on the plane by reaching the airport on time. Here are some suggestions: 

• Domestic Flight: Make sure to reach the airport 2 hours before departure. 
• International Flight: Must reach the airport at least 3 hours prior to take off. 
• Peak Hours: Provide yourself with some extra time during the peak hours 5-10 a.m., and from 1-4 p.m.

2. Essential App

Make your travel easier with digital tools, these apps will provide you with every necessary information: 

• DEN Airport Official App: It provides real-time Denver Airport security wait times​, flight status, the availability of the parking lot, and interactive map to help you move inside the airport like a seasoned traveler. 
• MyTSA App: Get the information about various checkpoints locations, crowd, and wait times and choose the best checkpoint for quick security check.
• Mobile Passport Control (MPC): One of the best apps for international travelers, which allows you to submit the customs declaration before landing through your smartphone and skip the long queue at the airport. 

3. Documentation Checklist

Navigating documentation is one of the most critical parts of your pre-flight preparation. Denver International Airport has been more strict regarding the identity verification standards. Here is a list of important documents. 

• Domestic Travel: Since 2025, a standard driver’s license is not sufficient for domestic travel unless it is a REAL ID compliant (marked with a star).
  • REAL ID compliant: Look at the right upper side of your driver license, whether it has a star or not. If not, you can use U.S. Passport, DHS Trusted Traveler Cards, U.S. Military ID, or Green Card. 
  • TSA ConfirmID: In case you are lacking a REAL ID compliant, you can opt for the TSA ConfirmID system, where you need to pay a $45 verification fee to establish your identity. 

• International Travel: The international travelers must have a valid passport with a validity of beyond 6 months of their stay in the U.S. 

Getting to the Airport & Exterior Logistics

To move out of the Denver International Airport, one requires a clear understanding of the airport layout. All ground transportation operates from the Japanese Terminal at level 5. 

1. Public Transport

The DEN Transit Center can be easily accessed through the south end of the Jeppesen Terminal and taking the escalator or elevator to Level 1. The transport options are: 

• The A Line (Airport Rail): It is one of the best options for passengers wanting to reach or leave the Denver International Airport. The route directly connects the Denver Transit Center to Union Station. 
• SkyRide Bus (RTD): Passengers are picked up and dropped off at the DEN Transit Center by RTD buses. Passes for a single day only cost $10. RTD bus lines AB, AT, 104L, 145X, and 169L are served by the station.
• Bustang: The city bus that is available at the airport. The passengers can use this option as well. The bus is available every 15 minutes and is one of the most economical options. 

2. Rideshare & Taxis

For a more convenient ride, you can choose a taxi or rideshare. Here are a few things to know: 

• Pickup Zones: The passengers can request pickup at the curbside of Level 5 near doors:
  • East Side: 505, 507, 511 or 513
  • West Side: 504, 506, 510 or 512

• Taxi Stands: These taxi stands operate 24/7 and cost approximately $75-$100. It is located on Level 5 (Baggage Claim) on Island 1 outside the doors:
  • East Side: 505, 507, and 511
  • West Side: 506, 510, and 512

3. Parking Deep-Dive

Here are the Denver Airport parking​ options and the rate associated with the specific parking: 

Option	Daily Rate	Best For
Economy	$20	Mid-range traveler; Free ride shuttle available
Garage	$35	Maximum convenience; close to the check-in area
Shuttle Lot	$10	Budget-conscious travelers.
Short Term Parking	$7/hour	Quick pickups and seeing off

Note: Passengers can calculate their exact parking costs based on the duration of their stay using the Parking Fee Estimator available on the airport’s official website.

Premium Reserve: Reserve your Denver International Airport parking​ up to 90 days to 24 hours before you reach the airport. It guarantees covered parking for $45 a day and a $5 reservation fee. It is located on Level 4 of the Terminal Parking Garage.

4. Off-Site Parking

DEN provides many offsite parking options with shuttle pick up on Level 5, Island 3, near East side doors 507 to 513 and West doors 504 to 510. The available options are: 

• ParkDIA: 25200 E 68th Ave, Aurora, CO 80019
• Fine Airport Parking: 5950 N Jackson Gap Way, Aurora, CO 80019
• Wally Park: 24200 E 78th Ave, Denver, CO 80249
• Park2Jet: 18121 E 81st Ave, Denver, CO 80022
• Canopy Airport Parking: 8100 Tower Rd, Commerce City, CO 80022

The prices for the parking can fall anywhere between $7 to $16 a day. To book your spot, move to their official website. 

5. EV Charging Stations

Denver International Airport has a total of 36 EV charging stations at the Level 1 parking garage of Level 1. The airport does not charge a fee for the service, however the parking rate might apply. The EV Stations are located at:

• Garage West, Level 1
Rows E, F, G
• Garage East, Level 1
Rows E, F (5); Row R (6)

Read Also: – DFW International Airport Guide

Mastering the Terminal Layout

Mastering the Denver Airport layout is all about understanding its linear, efficient design. DEN is unlike numerous large airports, as they have a “central hub and spoke” system, with navigation being easy if you understand the levels.

1. Terminal & Concourse Overview: The “Linear” Hub

DEN consists of one of the main buildings, the Jeppesen Terminal, and three separate parallel midfield concourses (A, B & C). The Denver Airport map is available on their ​website or mobile app to locate the concourses and services inside. 

• Jeppesen Terminal is shaped “mountain-topped,” but it is a linear hub. The terminal is located at the south end with the concourses running in a line to the north.
• Airlines by Concourse:
  • Concourse A: International flights, Delta, American, Frontier, and United.
  • Concourse B: United Airlines.
  • Concourse C: Southwest, Alaska.

2. Levels Breakdown: Jeppesen Terminal

The main terminal is divided into six floors, which are used for separation of the flow of arrival and departure of the passengers:

• Level 6 (Departures): Passenger drop-off / Check-in/Ticketing. Airline counters and the North/South security checkpoints are located here.
• Level 5 (Arrivals): Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation (Rideshare, Taxi, Shuttles). The same level is also used for international arrivals and Customs and Immigration.
• Level 4 (Parking & Bridge): Pick up of passengers and access to the Bridge Security checkpoint.
• Level 1 (Transit): The DEN Transit Center, which is the site for boarding the RTD A-Line to downtown and the regional bus system.

3. Inter-Terminal Transport: The Train

The Automated Guideway Transit System (AGTS) or what is better known as the “Plane Train” will be used to move people from the terminal to the gates.

• Location: After passing security at Level 5 or 6, go down the escalators to the underground train platform.
• Route: The train will go around in a loop, from Terminal to Concourse A to Concourse B to Concourse C.
• The Bridge Alternative: If you are leaving from Concourse A, you can walk across the Skybridge from the terminal. This way you can avoid the train and enjoy a fantastic view of planes taxiing below.
• Warning: Do not walk from Concourse B to Concourse C. If you are travelling between those two you have to take the train. It will take approximately 6 minutes to get from the Terminal to the farthest point of Concourse C.

The Check-in & Security Gauntlet

Complete your check-in process and pass through the security checkpoints to obtain your boarding pass. For a better understanding of the check-in and security procedures, refer to the points below.

1. Check-in

The check-in counters of the airlines are located on Level 6 of the Jeppesen Terminal at Denver International Airport. The counters are arranged on the East and West sides of the terminal. You must reach the airport 2 hours and 3 hours before domestic and international flight for the check-in, respectively.  

Note: The check-in counters of the selected airlines are moving from Level 6 to Level 5 (South end) from mid 2027, including the Southwest Airlines. 

2. Security Clearances

Denver International Airport has two main security checkpoints located on the East and West sides of Level 6 in the terminal. It is recommended to check the current Denver Airport wait for security​ before arriving at the airport and explore the available expedited screening options to make your journey smoother. Below is a comparison of various security options to help you choose the one best fits your travel needs.

Feature	General Screening	TSA PreCheck	CLEAR	Global Entry
Primary Goal	Standard Security	Faster Screening	Identity Verification	Faster Customs
Direction	Outbound	Outbound	Outbound	Inbound (to U.S.)
Cost	Free	$78 – $85 (5 Years)	$209 (1 Year)	$120 (5 Years)
Physical Req.	Shoes/Laptops off	Shoes/Laptops on	Varies	Kiosk/Biometrics
How it Works	Wait in standard line	Use dedicated lane	Use Biometrics (Eyes/Fingerprint)	Bypass customs lines
At the Airport	Full TSA Check	Dedicated TSA Lane	Skip to the front of line	Kiosk entry
Wait Time	20-45+ minutes	Less than 10 minutes	Less than 5 minutes	2-5 minutes only
Best For	Occasional travelers	Domestic frequent flyers	Those who hate all lines	International travelers

3. Pro-tips for clearing security faster

• Bundle Strategy: You can bundle the TSA Precheck and CLEAR together to expedite the process. CLEAR gets you to the front in the line with quick verification through biometrics and then TSA Precheck does not let you remove your shoes, jewellery, and other items. 
• Utilize Both Checkpoints: Check the live wait times for both East and West checkpoints and use the one with a shorter line. 
• DEN Reserve: A free service that can be used to book an exact time for security. The West Security checkpoint admits reservations up to three days ahead. It pushes you to the “Restricted Access” lane and makes you skip the general screening lane easily.

4. The “Wait Time” Strategy

The official flydenver.com site is updated in real-time through the use of sensors to indicate busy-ness at checkpoints in both directions, and the MyTSA app uses crowdsourcing data and historical trends to forecast “busy-ness. If you want to have a better experience, use DEN Reserve to pre-book a free screening time or check on the A-Bridge, which is the quickest for standard travelers at the airport.

Baggage, Customs & International Arrivals

The airport is well organized, making it easy to reach the final destination of your trip at Denver International Airport. Follow this guide to seamlessly gather items and begin the process of entering the United States.

1. Baggage Claim Logistics

The baggage carousels are all on Level 5 of Jeppesen Terminal. To find your bags, you must know which side of the terminal your airline uses:

• Terminal East: Carousels 1–9 (Primarily used by United Airlines and its partners)
  • Carousel 6-7 is typically used by Delta Airlines
  • Carousel 1 to 3 is reserved for International arrivals

• Terminal West: Carousels 10–19 (Used by Southwest, Frontier, American, and most other domestic airlines)
• Use the Check the Boards: Digital boards at the train exit (Level 5) will show the flight number alongside the assigned carousel.

2. Lost & Found Protocols

The plan for picking up a lost object is dependent on where you left it: 

• Left on the Plane or at the Gate: Directly contact the airline. They handle any items that are located either in the aircraft or at the check-in counter or in the gated seating spaces.
• Left in the Terminal: If you lost an item in a restaurant, bathroom, the “Plane Train,”  or anywhere inside the terminal, file a claim with the DEN Lost and Found. The DEN lost and found is located in the Jeppesen Terminal Level 1 East, near doors 111-113.  
• Left at security: Report to the TSA Lost and Found. They keep items found at check points for at least 30 days.

3. Oversized Baggage (Skis, Golf Clubs, Strollers)

If you have brought the oversized luggage, you might not find it on a regular carousel. There are six dedicated carousels for oversized luggage. Get the details below:

• Location: Oversized items will not get off the regular size carousels. Rather, focus on the large silver doors between the regular carousels on level 5 (between carousels 6/7 on the East side, and 14/15 on the West side).
• Strollers: Most airlines will return gate-checked strollers at the jet bridge when you come back, some airlines may send gate-checked strollers to oversized baggage areas on level 5.

4. Customs & Immigration

International travelers at Denver International Airport (DEN) undergo a standard process of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). To minimize wait times, the mobile passport control (MPC) process provides an expedited service for eligible passport holders for free.

Standard Process

Deplane at A Gates and take signs to immigration through the Jeppesen Terminal passageway, bridge, escalator or elevator. Show your passport and paperwork to a CBP officer who will check your papers before you are able to go to baggage claim. Collect bags, declare goods and items to a customs officer who can inspect bags or declare duties before leaving Level 5 arrivals.

MPC Eligibility

No pre-approval required for U.S. citizens or for U.S. lawful permanent residents or Canadian B1/B2 visitors (visitors with a valid passport). Make sure you download the free CBP MPC app prior to travel; it can be downloaded at participating airports such as DEN.

MPC Steps

• Download the app 4 hours before you arrive at the airport, scan passport(s) for your group (up to 12), take a selfie and fill in the customs declaration.
• Click on “Submit” to create QR code(s) (saved in “receipts”).
• Upon arrival, move to the dedicated MPC line, show your passport and QR to the CBP officer for a quick scan and answer the questions of the officer. 
• Follow to baggage and customs declaration (which is pre-filled) and exit, skipping some kiosks.

Digital & Physical Amenities

Denver International Airport provides every digital and physical amenities inside the airport to make your trip seamless. The guide below will help you locate and use the services effectively at the airport. 

1. Digital Connectivity & Power

• Wi-Fi: DEN Airport is well provided with the free Wi-Fi throughout all three concourses (A, B, and C). Enjoy high-speed internet to all public areas, including gates, seating areas, restaurants, lounges, etc. To connect, here are the steps:
  • Turn on the Wi-Fi in your device. 
  • Select between “DEN Airport Free WiFi” or “DEN Airport Free WiFi 2.4. 
  • Accept the terms and conditions and connect your device. 

• Dead Zone: Users often have faced slower speed near the older gates of the airport. Also, while you are traveling between concourses via train, you might experience that connection speeds can fluctuate. 

• Power outlets: There are many power outlets available throughout the Jeppenson Terminal.
  • Rest and Recharge Areas: The airport has installed comfortable chairs, power outlets, and USB ports.
    • Concourse A: Mezzanine Level, north side.
    • Other Concourses: Look for similar setups in the center cores.

• FuelRod Swaps/Purchases: FuelRod Swaps and Purchases: FuelRod kiosks are located all over the airport, and they allow passengers to purchase or swap chargers for portable power sources.
  • A Gates: Near Gates A31-33, A40, and A47.
  • B Gates: Center Core (near Johnston & Murphy) and East (transition to B80–B95).
  • C Gates: Center Core (near Bodega DEN).

2. Accessibility & Special Assistance

• Wheelchair: All airlines provide wheelchair assistance, if you are looking for one, make sure to reach out to your airline at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure time and reserve one for yourself. In case, you did not reserve ahead of time, move to the ticketing counter of your airline to know about the availability. 
• Sunflower Lanyard: DEN participates in the Sunflower Hidden Disabilities Program to assist passengers at the airport. To obtain the Sunflower Lanyard, proceed to the DEN Ambassador or a Customer Service Agent stationed at any of the four customer service booths located in the center of each concourse at DEN.

3. Traveling with Families/Pets

• Child Play Areas: DEN Airport has two play areas to keep your child busy and entertained while layover. These areas are equipped with seating and storage spaces, and open 24 hours a day and seven days a week. The play areas are located near Gate C54 and A25. 
• Nursing Room: Find the nursing rooms post-security on each of DEN’s concourses. Each nursing room is open 24/7 with power outlets, comfortable seating, sink, changing table, and wheelchair accessible. The nursing room can be found at Gate A19, A27, B11, B65, C55, C61, one Center of Jeppesen Terminal, Level 5. Southside, inside the women’s restroom. 
• Pet Relief Areas: The pet areas at DEN Airport are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

• Indoor
  • Concourse A: Located in the Center Core near the U.S. Mail Drop. Additional facilities are found near gates A17 and A25.
  • Concourse B: Situated in the Center Core near the U.S. Mail Drop. There are also relief areas located near gates B16 and B69.
  • Concourse C: Found in the Center Core near the U.S. Mail Drop, with other locations near gates C53 and C62.
• Outdoor
  • Concourse A: Near Gate A15.
  • Concourse B: West side, near Gate B7.
  • Concourse C: East side, near Gate C67.

Read Also: – Chicago O’Hare Airport Transport Guide

What to Do While You Wait (The DEN Experience)

Whether you’re in for a quick connection or a long layover, Denver International Airport (DEN) provides plenty of ways to pass the time beyond sitting at your gate.

1. Lounges

It’s all about your priorities; whether it’s a high-quality food bar, particular airline loyalty, or easy accessibility, the Denver Airport lounges have all of it. 

• Delta Sky Club (Concourse A): Mezzanine, 4th floor in Center Core. It’s a must-have for Delta travelers, with regular service, hot buffets, and a bar. Best for those leaving from A-gates.
• The Centurion Lounge (Concourse C): Near gate C46. It’s widely regarded as the best food in the airport and is curated by James Beard Award-winning chefs and has a signature “craft beer flight” bar. Amex Platinum/Centurion cardholders are able to access it.
• Capital One Lounge (Concourse A): Close to gate A34. A quiet new favorite with premium “grab and go” food, shower suites, and relaxation rooms featuring sleep pods.
• The Club at DEN (Concourse B): Excellent stand-alone, Priority Pass option. It provides a less frenetic and more quiet setting with a regular buffet and workstations.

2. Dining: A Taste of Colorado

DEN is known to outfit the terminals with local downtown delights. The Denver Airport food map​ will help you to locate the restaurants at different concourses. 

Quick Bites & Local Favorites

• Little Man Ice Cream (Concourse C): A Denver favorite by gate C27. Famous for “Sammies” (ice lollies) and “Shakes” (drinks containing booze).
• Snarf’s Sandwiches (Concourse A): Close to gate A73. A local favorite for toasted sandwiches.
• Denver Central Market (Concourse A): The Denver Airport food hall-style project at gate A48 with a variety of local vendors such as Vero Pizza and Culture Meat.

Sit-Down Meals

• Root Down (Concourse C): One of the top-rated restaurants in the airport, in the U.S. It has a “field-to-fork” dining experience featuring a live moss wall as well as superb cocktails.
• Broncos star John Elway: This is the spot for any high-end steakhouse experience without leaving the airport. This, named after Broncos star John Elway, is the place for a high-end steakhouse experience without leaving the airport.

Dietary-Specific (Vegan & GF)

• Modern Market (Concourse B & C): Great for farm-fresh, made-from-scratch salads and bowls for vegans and gluten-free eaters.
• Root Down: The sit-down restaurants’ largest selection of vegan and gluten-free options.

3. Retail Therapy

• Local Boutiques: For the most unique Colorado gifts, visit Atomicchild (Concourse B) or Björn’s Colorado Honey (multiple locations) for Colorado apparel and accessories.
• Duty-Free: International travelers can find Duty-Free for their shopping needs in the Center Core of Concourse A.

Packed with last-minute snacks and tech, travel essentials are located throughout every concourse.

4. Hidden Gems & Quiet Zones

• Outdoor Decks: At the opposite end of Concourses A, B, and C, frescoes, mountain views, and even fire pits are featured on these patios, making for a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle.
• The Art Program: Don’t miss “Blucifer,” the giant blue horse statue outside, as well as the controversial murals in the Jeppesen Terminal baggage claim. Please note that some murals are in the process of being stored while renovations are being made to the “Great Hall.”
• Restful “Nap” Zones: If sleep is necessary, go to the north side of the Concourse A mezzanine. It is a rest facility offering lounge-style seating. For more privacy, the Capital One Lounge has dedicated sleep pods (fee applies).

Emergency & Specialized Services

DEN provides specialized services to passengers. So, if you are looking for last-minute help, DEN got you covered. 

ATMs: DEN has ATMs available throughout the Jeppesen Terminal. You can use their interactive map to find one near you or directly ask the airport’s officials. 

Currency Exchange: There are four worldwide currency exchanges available at the DEN Airport. These are located at Jeppesen Terminal Level 5, Center Core Gate (A, B, and C). 

Interfaith Chapel: It is located in the Jeppesen Terminal, Level 6 East and remains open 24/7 providing quiet space for prayer and meditation. 

Smoking Areas: DEN does not have a smoking area inside the terminal. However, there are some available outside the terminal to accommodate the smokers.

West Side of Jeppesen Terminal

• Level 4 – Doors 400 and 416
• Level 5 – Doors 500 and 516
• Level 6 – Door 616

East Side of Jeppesen Terminal

• Level 4 – Doors 401 and 417
• Level 5 – Door 517
• Level 6 – Doors 601 and 617

Critical Contact Directory

Stuck with your journey and looking for help! Find the number from the Denver International Airport directory and get to the officials for required help. 

Airport Operations

Department	Phone Number
Customer Service Phone	(720) 730-4359
Lost and Found	(720) 336-2522
Parking	(303) 342-7275
Transportation Security Administration	(866) 289-9673
Airport Police	(303) 342-4211
Media Information	(720) 583-5758
Noise Concerns	(303) 342-2380 or (800) 417-2988 24/7
Wi-Fi Internet Customer Support	DENAirportWIFI@flydenver.com

Airline-Specific Numbers

Airline	Phone Number
Aer Lingus	(800) 474-7424
Aeromexico	(800) 247-6639
Air Canada	(800) 247-2262
Air France	(800) 237-2747
American Airlines	(800) 433-7300
Delta Air Lines	(800) 221-1212
Frontier Airlines	(801) 401-9000
JetBlue Airways	(800) 538-2583
Southwest Airlines	(800) 435-9792
United Airlines	(800) 864-8331

Final Thoughts & Pro-Tips

The A-Bridge walkway (Level 6) is an ideal route to take when visiting DEN, avoiding the overcrowded train for a scenic stroll to Concourse A, a walk with minimal stress. To be on the safe side, try to avoid the lines by booking a free time slot on PreCheck’s secret sister, DEN Reserve. For those with a long layover, the outdoor Q, A & C decks at the ends of Concourse B and C offer rare fresh air and mountain views by fire pits, and the North Mezzanine in Concourse A is the quietest place to nap. The Westin DEN is ideal for overnight guests with its soundproof rooms and runway-view pool, which are both a few steps away from the terminal.

FAQs

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